Trend Naija

Singer Speed Darlington has made a public apology to Burna Boy, appealing to the Grammy-winning star to withdraw the court charges filed against him.

What he said

In a video posted on Instagram on Thursday, 12 November 2026, Speed Darlington, whose real name is Darlington Okoye, admitted that his words may have caused Burna Boy pain and embarrassment. He said he had wrongly assumed that other people shared his own temperament and tolerance, and pledged to stop all comments about the singer, direct or indirect, if the charges are withdrawn. He also promised to stop mentioning Burna Boy's name altogether once the matter is settled.

How the feud began

The dispute escalated in October 2024, when Speed Darlington posted videos questioning Burna Boy's Grammy win for his album 'Twice as Tall' and making disparaging remarks about him. The matter later became a legal case, with Speed Darlington facing charges filed after a complaint from Burna Boy's camp.

How people reacted

The apology drew a wave of reactions online, with many users surprised by Speed Darlington's change of tone. Burna Boy had not publicly responded at the time of writing.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu was reportedly met with chants of Peter Obi's name as he campaigned for President Bola Tinubu at a festival in Abia State.

What happened

Kalu, an All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker who represents Bende Federal Constituency, was addressing the Item Okpi Festival, an annual cultural celebration in Bende Local Government Area, on Saturday. According to reports on Thursday, 12 November 2026, the audience responded with loud and sustained chants of Obi's name rather than applause. When a woman on stage began a pro-Obi song, Kalu reportedly asked her to switch to a pro-Tinubu song, but the chanting continued. The Deputy Speaker was said to have remarked in Igbo that the crowd did not seem to want a university the President plans to build for them, and suggested some of those chanting were not from Item.

Background

Abia is governed by Alex Otti of the Labour Party, a former ally of Obi who has said he supports Tinubu as the sitting president while acknowledging that his party has its own candidate. Obi, now the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), remains popular in the South-East, where the APC is working hard to win support ahead of the 16 January 2027 election. Kalu has not publicly commented on the video.

The deputy national publicity secretary of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Abdulmumin Abdulsalami, has resigned from the party.

His reasons

In a resignation letter addressed to NDC national chairman Senator Moses Cleopas and reported on Thursday, 12 November 2026, Abdulsalami said he was a foundation member who played a central role in the party's early growth, but that his efforts had clashed with the interests of a few powerful officials. He said the decision was about his peace of mind, citing what he described as repeated injustices against him. He declined to name the officials he blamed.

What next

Abdulsalami said he was stepping away from partisan politics entirely. A party source quoted in reports claimed he had not been paid a salary or given a working budget since the party was formed, and that the NDC's national leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, had persuaded him to stay on several occasions since October.

Background

Abdulsalami was previously the NDC's interim chairman in Kogi State. The NDC is the party of presidential candidate Peter Obi and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso. His exit comes a day after Obi's former spokesman Yunusa Tanko took a senior role in the SDP's presidential campaign. The party had not publicly responded to his resignation at the time of writing.

Nigerian actor and content creator Justin Chukwudi Ugonna, popularly known as Justin UG, has joined the United States Air Force.

What he shared

In an Instagram post on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, the entertainer shared photos and videos from his military graduation ceremony, showing him in uniform alongside fellow graduates. He said he had never imagined himself pursuing a military career, and described the training as physically and mentally demanding, saying it had tested him in ways he had never experienced. He said the experience showed him how much the human mind can endure.

Former Big Brother Naija housemate Tacha Akide has announced a new milestone for her make-up business.

What she announced

In posts shared on her social media pages and reported on Thursday, 12 November 2026, Tacha said she had secured a physical headquarters for her brand, Tacha Beauty HQ, and thanked God for the achievement. She did not reveal the location but shared a glimpse of the property and called on interior designers to help turn it into a beautiful and functional space.

How people reacted

Fans and well-wishers flooded her comments with congratulatory messages, praising her business growth.

Background

Tacha rose to fame on the fourth season of Big Brother Naija in 2019.

The European Union has expressed concern about rising election-related violence, hate speech and political intimidation in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.

What the EU said

Speaking at the opening of the 2026 Civil Society and Human Rights Defenders Forum in Abuja, reported on Thursday, 12 November 2026, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, warned that such incidents erode democratic gains and discourage citizens from taking full part in elections. He said free civic and political space allows civil society groups and citizens to monitor how elections are run, track campaign promises and hold leaders to account, and helps prevent authorities from manipulating the rules.

Support for institutions

Mignot said open public debate, independent media, peaceful assembly and an active civil society are vital to credible elections. He said the EU would continue to support Nigerian institutions, including the National Human Rights Commission, to help create a free and fair electoral environment, while stressing that it would not interfere in domestic politics.

Background

The warning follows a string of violent incidents linked to campaigns in several states. Peter Obi's convoy was attacked in Calabar, NDC supporters' vehicles were destroyed at a rally in Delta, and APC supporters were attacked ahead of a rally in Katsina. The Inspector-General of Police has also warned officers against being used by politicians. The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has warned police officers against allowing politicians to use them to undermine the 2027 elections.

What he said

Speaking on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, at a monthly meeting with senior officers in Abuja, Disu said the police would remain neutral and give equal protection to all candidates, parties, supporters and voters. He said he would not tolerate any officer using police authority to advance the interests of a party, candidate or sponsor, and that officers found colluding with politicians, aiding thuggery or interfering with voters' rights would be disciplined. He told officers that the force is not a tool for any politician and urged them not to allow themselves to be used.

Officers to stay at posts

The IGP directed commissioners of police and other senior officers to remain in their commands throughout the electoral process.

Background

The warning comes amid concern over political violence ahead of the elections and a recent controversy over a video showing police officers escorting businessman Blord, which the police said was unlawful. On the same day, the police said they had raided so-called phone farms used to spread election misinformation. The European Union has also raised concerns about violence and hate speech before the polls.

The Department of State Services (DSS) has intercepted a large consignment of weapons and ammunition allegedly being smuggled from Niger Republic to armed bandits in north-west Nigeria.

What was seized

According to security sources quoted in reports on Thursday, 12 November 2026, the interception took place on Tuesday, 10 November, at Dawakawa in Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State. Operatives reportedly recovered 21 AK-47 rifles, four PKT machine guns and 825 magazines. The suspected smugglers were said to have been using camels to move the weapons along remote routes to avoid detection.

Why it matters

Security analysts described the seizure as a significant blow to an alleged cross-border arms supply network that is suspected of arming bandit groups in the North-West. The use of camels shows how criminal networks are using unconventional methods to move weapons across the long, porous border with Niger. Some reports described the operation as foiling a major terror plot.

Arrests

It is not clear whether any suspects were arrested.

Households in Lagos, Ogun and Oyo states are paying much more for cooking gas after a sharp rise in prices over the past month.

The new prices

According to reports on Thursday, 12 November 2026, retail prices of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at several outlets rose from around ₦1,200 to ₦1,800 per kilogramme. In parts of Ogun State, including Magboro, Mowe and Ibafo, some residents said they were paying as much as ₦1,900 per kg. In Oyo State, prices reportedly range from about ₦1,450 per kg at direct outlets to between ₦1,500 and ₦1,650 at neighbourhood retailers.

Why prices rose

The increase follows a reported 31.8 per cent rise in depot prices, from ₦1,100 to ₦1,450 per kg, which has pushed up costs along the supply chain.

Impact on households

Some households say they are considering returning to charcoal because they can no longer afford gas.

Background

The latest increase comes even as petrol prices have eased slightly, with Dangote Refinery reportedly cutting its petrol price this week.

Friends and family of the late Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo have shared emotional tributes to mark six months since his death.

The tributes

On Thursday, 12 November 2026, actor IK Ogbonna, widely regarded as Ekubo's closest friend, posted a throwback video of the two of them on Instagram with a simple heart emoji, saying in a separate post that six months still felt like yesterday. Businessman Vintage Luxury also shared a tribute describing his late friend as rare, while Ekubo's sister posted a message saying she missed him more than life.

His death

Alexx Ekubo died on Monday, 11 May 2026, at a hospital in Lagos after complications from advanced kidney cancer. He was 40. His death shocked Nollywood, and tributes poured in from colleagues, fans and public figures. He was buried on 18 June 2026 in Arochukwu, Abia State, in a ceremony attended by many figures from the entertainment industry.

Background

Ekubo was one of Nollywood's best-known leading men and was known for his close friendship with IK Ogbonna.

Former US President Joe Biden says he would not have run for a second term if he had known he had cancer.

What he said

In an interview ahead of the release of his memoir, 'Promise Me, America', reported on Thursday, 12 November 2026, Biden said he had felt unwell before his diagnosis but did not know he was ill while he was campaigning. He also played down his June 2024 debate against Donald Trump, saying everyone makes mistakes in debates and that, in his view, it was not very consequential. He said he had expected there to be another debate.

Background

Biden's poor debate performance triggered intense pressure from fellow Democrats and led him to withdraw from the 2024 race and endorse Vice-President Kamala Harris, 107 days before the election. Harris went on to lose to Trump. About four months after leaving the White House, Biden was diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer.

A court in Abuja has ordered that investigative journalist Daniel Ojukwu be held in prison pending a hearing on his bail application.

The charges

Ojukwu, who works for the Foundation for Investigative Journalism, was arraigned on a 12-count charge of allegedly breaching Nigeria's Cybercrimes Act, and the court ordered his remand on Tuesday, 10 November 2026. The charges relate to reports he published about Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, who was senior special assistant on the Sustainable Development Goals under former President Muhammadu Buhari and now holds the same role under President Bola Tinubu. The charges have not been tested at trial.

Press freedom concerns

The decision drew widespread criticism from media freedom advocates, who have long argued that the cybercrimes law is used to silence journalists. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, at least 29 journalists have been prosecuted under the law since it was enacted in 2015. Nigeria is ranked 112th out of 180 countries in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index compiled by Reporters Without Borders.

Background

Ojukwu was previously detained by police for several days in 2024 over a report on the same official, a case that also drew national and international criticism.

Indonesia's Vice-President, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, has resigned, according to an aide who said the letter was handed directly to President Prabowo Subianto on Wednesday, 11 November 2026. It was not immediately clear whether the President had accepted it.

The court ruling

The resignation follows a ruling by Indonesia's Supreme Court that declared invalid a high-school equivalence certificate Gibran used during the 2024 election campaign. Indonesian law requires anyone running for vice-president to have completed senior high school. Gibran, who studied in Singapore and Australia, had relied on a local equivalence document and argued that his university education was enough proof. The court reportedly found no evidence of a foreign qualification that could legally replace a senior high school certificate, and pointed to an earlier Constitutional Court ruling that reached the same conclusion. On Tuesday he had asked for a chance to challenge the ruling.

Political pressure

The ruling prompted swift political action, with more than 100 lawmakers reportedly backing moves against him.

Background

Gibran is the eldest son of former President Joko Widodo.

Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, has drawn wide reactions online after a video showed him criticising fake pastors in Nigeria.

What he said

In the clip, which spread on social media on Thursday, 12 November 2026, the cleric was addressing a gathering that included several dignitaries. He said the number of fraudulent ministers in the country was alarming and that genuine Christians want to be counted as people of faith. He also reflected on his own ministry, which he said spans nearly 50 years. The occasion appeared to be a formal church celebration, but his comments on fake pastors became the main talking point.

How people reacted

The comments drew mixed reactions on social media.

Background

Oyedepo is one of Nigeria's most influential church leaders, and his comments regularly spark debate. Last week he warned politicians that the evil they fail to stop will eventually stop them, and told anyone with plans to Islamise Nigeria to drop them.

Images of recharge cards bearing the logo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), reportedly handed out at President Bola Tinubu's campaign rally in Rivers State, have sparked debate on social media.

What happened

A man who came across pictures of the ₦200 airtime cards questioned online what anyone could achieve with such a small amount, and his comment, shared on Thursday, 12 November 2026, quickly drew reactions. The cards were said to have circulated among people who attended the rally.

How people reacted

Some users mocked the giveaway and said the money would be better spent on fixing the country, while others joked about how the airtime might be used. Some warned that small gifts like this could still influence some voters.

Background

Campaign giveaways have become a talking point ahead of the 2027 elections. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) recently accused the APC of handing out cash and gifts at campaign events and called on the anti-graft agency and INEC to investigate. The APC had not publicly responded to the recharge card images at the time of writing. The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

Nollywood actress Wumi Toriola has sparked conversation online after confronting a content creator at a film premiere in Lagos.

What happened

The incident took place on Sunday, 8 November 2026, at the premiere of the film 'Five Figurines'. While posing for photos on the red carpet, the actress noticed that her skirt had shifted and stopped to adjust it, apparently expecting those filming to pause. A content creator reportedly kept recording, and Toriola responded with a sarcastic remark about where the camera was pointed. The content creator could be heard apologising.

How people reacted

The video went viral this week. Many users backed the actress, saying the person filming should have stopped, while others joked about her well-known outspokenness. The clip has prompted wider debate about privacy and the limits content creators should respect when filming celebrities at public events.

The federal government has reopened its programme offering free registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to small business owners.

The programme

The scheme, run through the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), targets 250,000 nano, micro and small enterprises across the country, according to reports on Thursday, 12 November 2026. It covers the cost of business name registration, which is one of the barriers that keeps many small businesses informal.

Who can apply

The programme is aimed at owners of small businesses not yet registered with the CAC, including traders, artisans, retailers and service providers. Business owners already registered with SMEDAN but not with the CAC may also qualify, subject to the agency's requirements.

Why it reopened

The portal was reopened after applicants earlier reported difficulties accessing it, which disrupted the application process.

Background

The reopening comes as the government also rolls out a ₦50,000 cash grant to vulnerable households.

Yunusa Tanko, a former spokesman for Peter Obi and ex-national coordinator of the Obidient Movement, has joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP) campaign for the 2027 presidential election.

The new role

At the inauguration of the SDP Presidential Campaign Council in Abuja on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, Tanko was named its national coordinator. In his acceptance speech he thanked the party's leadership and pledged full commitment to its presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo. He said he had reached out to both Obi and Senator Seriake Dickson, national leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), before taking up the post, and described his relationship with Adebayo as dating back to the 2023 election cycle.

How he left Obi's camp

Tanko was removed as national coordinator of the Obidient Movement in October 2026 and briefly served as Obi's political adviser for Northern Nigeria. He resigned from that role on 30 October, saying he was returning to the National Consultative Front, which he co-chairs with Professor Pat Utomi. He took on that position in October after the death of former House of Representatives Speaker Ghali Na'Abba, who had co-chaired the group.

Background

Obi, the 2023 Labour Party candidate, is now the NDC presidential candidate with Rabiu Kwankwaso as his running mate. Adebayo was also the SDP's presidential candidate in 2023. The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027. Obi's campaign had not publicly reacted to Tanko's new role at the time of writing.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Kaduna State government of sealing Arewa House to prevent its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, from meeting Northern stakeholders there.

What the ADC said

In a statement on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, issued by Phrank Shaibu, director of strategic communication for the ADC presidential campaign council, the party said Atiku's team had chosen Arewa House in Kaduna as the venue for a consultation on Thursday, 13 November, but that the state government sealed the building beforehand. Atiku himself said his campaign had proposed the venue and that the government sealed it the same day.

The party's complaint

The ADC described Arewa House as part of the shared heritage of Northern Nigeria and said using it to block a political gathering was an insult to the region. It held President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) responsible, saying a ruling party must not use government power to block opposition activities. There was no immediate public response from the Kaduna State government, which is led by the APC, to the allegation.

Background

Arewa House, the former residence of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the late Premier of the Northern Region, is a historic institution in Kaduna. Atiku is contesting the 2027 presidential election despite a court ruling that voided his nomination, which the ADC has appealed.

A video of a campaign bus belonging to the All Progressives Congress (APC) stuck on a badly damaged road in Lagos has spread widely online.

What the video shows

The clip, shared on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, shows a minibus bearing APC logos and candidates' portraits trapped on a waterlogged, broken stretch of road at Alaba Market. People on board try to push the vehicle free, while bystanders jeer and refuse to help, using the moment to complain about the state of local infrastructure and criticise the ruling party.

Reactions

The video drew many comments online. Economist and politician Professor Pat Utomi joked that the bus driver needed only 'renewed hope' to endure the road, a reference to the slogan of President Bola Tinubu's government.

Background

A similar video of an APC campaign bus stuck on a bad road in Ebonyi State circulated about a month ago.

The Oyo State House of Assembly has suspended four local government chairmen over alleged corruption and mismanagement of council funds.

What happened

The assembly announced the suspensions on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, citing corruption and financial misconduct, but did not immediately release details of the allegations against each chairman. The allegations have not been tested and the chairmen had not publicly responded at the time of writing.

The defections

The timing has drawn attention because three of the four chairmen reportedly defected from the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) the day before. The fourth, the chairman of Iwajowa Local Government Area, Muritala Abiodun Oyewumi, was said to have remained in the APM.

Background

Oyo State has 33 local government areas, and lawmakers have recently called for greater accountability in how council funds are managed.

Alexander Darchiev, Russia's ambassador to the United States, has died at the age of 66.

What happened

The Russian Foreign Ministry announced his death on Wednesday, 11 November 2026. Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said he died in Moscow from an unspecified chronic illness. The ministry praised him as an outstanding diplomat and an expert on the United States, and said details of a memorial service would be released later.

His career

Darchiev became ambassador in Washington in early 2025, succeeding Anatoly Antonov. Before that, he headed the Foreign Ministry's North America department, served as Russia's ambassador to Canada and worked as a senior diplomat at the embassy in Washington. In February 2025, he led Russia's delegation at talks with the United States in Istanbul.

Background

In 2017, Russia's UN envoy Vitaly Churkin also died suddenly in New York.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council has reportedly removed some of its spokespersons following the controversy over a failed attempt to demonstrate Nigeria's 112 emergency number on live television.

Only three can now speak

According to reports, President Bola Tinubu's Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, announced on Wednesday that the spokespersons earlier named by the campaign council had been removed.

He said only three officials are now authorised to speak on behalf of the council: Senator Abdulaziz Yari, the Director General; Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake; and Minister of Information Mohammed Idris.

What happened on live TV

It all started on Tuesday, when APC official Alwan Hassan appeared as a guest on a live television politics programme.

While discussing the achievements of the APC-led government, Hassan pointed to the 112 emergency number as an example of a working public service. He explained that Nigerians could dial it whenever they needed urgent help, whether in a medical emergency, a security threat or a road accident.

To prove his point, he challenged the host to dial 112 right there in the studio.

That was where things took an unexpected turn. The host tried the number, but the call failed to connect. He tried again, with the same result.

Hassan insisted the line was working and suggested network problems might have stopped the calls going through. His explanation did little to stop the criticism that followed.

The backlash

Clips of the interview spread quickly online, with Nigerians questioning the reliability of a service people are meant to depend on in life-threatening situations. Opposition figures also seized on the incident to challenge the government's claims about improved public services.

The real question

Is removing spokespersons really the answer, or should the government be more concerned about finding out why the emergency calls failed?

Someone calling 112 during an armed robbery, a serious accident or a medical emergency may not have the luxury of trying again and again until the network connects.

One failed demonstration does not prove the whole emergency system is broken. But it raises questions that deserve proper answers, and for many Nigerians, those answers matter far more than who is allowed to speak for a political campaign.

Over to you

Was removing the spokespersons necessary, or should the priority be investigating and improving the 112 emergency response system?

Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso have visited Yelewata community in Benue State, bringing some hope to residents who have endured years of hardship and neglect.

A moment of remembrance

Yelewata was the scene of a deadly attack in June 2025 that left many residents dead and shocked the nation. During the visit, Obi knelt to lay a wreath at the memorial bearing the names of the victims, as a large crowd looked on.

Donations and promises

The two political leaders promised to provide a motorised borehole to help address the community's water needs. They also donated ₦10 million to support vulnerable children, while Professor Shija contributed another ₦2 million towards the education of orphans.

The people speak

Beyond the donations, the people of Yelewata had their own stories to tell. They spoke about years of neglect, the difficulties they face every day and the lack of meaningful government support.

Imagine living for years without some of the basic things that should make life easier, while those elected to serve appear distant from your suffering. For residents, the visit was a chance to make their voices heard and draw attention to their situation.

Action, not just visits

Promises must be followed by action. The community needs lasting solutions, not just occasional visits.

Leadership should be about compassion, listening to the people and doing something practical to improve their lives.

Over to you

What do you think of this visit by Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso to Yelewata?

Shirley U. Emehelu, a lawyer born in Nigeria, has been appointed lieutenant governor of New Jersey in the United States.

The appointment

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill appointed Emehelu on Monday, 9 November 2026, making her the state's fifth lieutenant governor and the first immigrant to hold the office. She was sworn in at the Statehouse in Trenton by the state's Chief Justice, Stuart Rabner. The appointment also means that, for the first time in New Jersey's history, women hold the state's two highest executive offices at the same time. Emehelu will also serve as Secretary of State, a role that covers government administration and oversight of elections.

Why she was chosen

Sherrill described Emehelu as an experienced public servant and pointed to her record prosecuting financial crimes, protecting consumers, defending civil rights and tackling government waste. The governor also praised her leadership as acting Secretary of State, including overseeing the state's recent elections.

Her Nigerian roots

Emehelu, who moved from Nigeria to the United States as a child, said she was proud of what the appointment means for Black women, immigrants and people who share her Nigerian heritage, and expressed hope that it would inspire young people to serve. She said she would work with the governor on the cost of living and economic opportunity.

The Nigeria Police Force says it has raided facilities allegedly used to manipulate online conversations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

What the police said

Speaking on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, at a webinar on AI, misinformation and the 2027 elections, Assistant Commissioner of Police Bashir Abdullahi, who represented the Inspector-General of Police, said officers had carried out targeted raids on so-called phone farms after receiving information about a coordinated effort to interfere with the polls. He explained that a single operator can use hundreds of phones and automated accounts to push the same message, creating the impression that many people are independently discussing an issue. He said the raids had disrupted the operation.

Suspect arrested

Abdullahi said a suspect was in custody after officers traced allegedly false reports about a candidate from the South-South. He said the reports were allegedly meant to discredit the candidate and influence voters. The suspect has not been named or charged in court.

Free speech

He said the police would prosecute people found to have spread false information capable of undermining the elections, but stressed that enforcement would be guided by the law and that the force would not interfere with legitimate public debate. He also said the police had acquired tools that can detect deepfake videos, altered photos and cloned voices.

Background

At the same event, INEC said its own staff in about 10 states had uploaded AI-generated photos to the voters' register. The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

Afrobeats star Ayra Starr has been announced as one of the performers at the 2027 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.

The line-up

The festival's organisers revealed the line-up on Instagram on Wednesday, 11 November 2026. Ayra Starr is on the Sunday bill for both weekends and is expected to perform on 11 and 18 April 2027. The Sunday shows are headlined by American R&B star SZA, with Don Toliver, Kygo, Jorja Smith, Victoria Monét and Tove Lo among the other acts. Dua Lipa is among the festival's other headliners. Coachella takes place at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, from 9 to 11 April and 16 to 18 April.

Her reaction

The singer shared the news on her own Instagram page with a short message telling fans she would see them in the desert.

Background

Ayra Starr, signed to Mavin Records, rose to international fame with hits such as 'Rush' and has become one of the most successful young Nigerian artists of her generation. Coachella is one of the world's biggest music festivals.

A Los Angeles concert by R&B stars Usher and Chris Brown has reportedly been cancelled.

What happened

According to reports on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, the pair's 16 November show at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, was marked as cancelled on Ticketmaster, and ticket holders were told they would receive refunds. No reason was given. Their 15 November show at the same venue, and their remaining Atlanta dates, were still listed as going ahead.

The feud

It is not clear whether the cancellation is linked to the reported argument between the two singers before their Atlanta concert last week. Usher reportedly wanted to start that show on time, while Brown wanted to wait for fans stuck in traffic, and the disagreement was said to have delayed the performance by almost three hours. Sources quoted in reports say the two have still not met to settle their differences and describe the relationship as frosty.

Background

The two stars are on a joint tour. Neither singer had publicly commented on the cancellation at the time of writing.

American actor Stacy Keach has died at the age of 85.

What happened

Keach reportedly died on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, at his home in Poland after a long battle with a serious heart condition and heart failure. His wife, Małgosia Tomassi Keach, announced his death and described him as a brave man who stayed strong despite his health problems.

His career

Keach began acting on Broadway in the 1960s before moving into films in the following decade, and drew attention starring alongside Faye Dunaway in the 1971 film 'Doc'. He became best known for playing private investigator Mike Hammer in the television series 'Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer' and 'The New Mike Hammer'. Younger audiences knew him as the prison warden in the hit series 'Prison Break'.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it has identified officials in about 10 states who uploaded photographs generated by artificial intelligence to Nigeria's voters' register.

What INEC said

Speaking on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, at a webinar on AI, misinformation and the 2027 elections, INEC National Commissioner Mohammed Haruna, who chairs the commission's Information and Voter Education Committee, said a large number of AI-generated pictures had been posted onto the register and had since been taken down. He said the commission had the names of the staff involved across about 10 states and would take disciplinary action against them.

Limits on what INEC can do

Haruna said it could be difficult for the commission to stop members of the public from digitally altering their own photographs before submitting them, but that INEC could act directly where its own staff were responsible.

Background

The issue of AI-generated images on the register had already drawn public attention, raising concerns about the accuracy of the voter roll ahead of the general elections. The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

The Flamingos, Nigeria's under-17 women's football team, have been welcomed at the Presidential Villa in Abuja after winning the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.

The reception

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu received the players and officials on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, in what was described as a celebratory homecoming visit and the federal government's formal recognition of the team's achievement.

₦100 million each

During the visit, the First Lady announced that the President was giving each player a ₦100 million savings certificate. The money will be held in trust in designated bank accounts until each player turns 18, so the teenage champions will not have immediate access to it. The reward was extended to the coaching staff: the head coach will receive ₦100 million in cash and each member of the technical crew ₦50 million.

The win

The Flamingos beat Japan 2–1 in the final in Morocco on Saturday, 7 November, with goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku, becoming the first African side to win the tournament. After losing their opening game to Poland, they won five matches in a row, including victories over defending champions North Korea, Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil. The win means Nigeria has now won the FIFA U-17 World Cup in both the men's and women's competitions.

Rewards

The Senate has also pledged ₦100 million to the team, and the players had earlier received $50,000 in cash. FIFA does not award prize money at this level, so rewards depend on governments and sponsors.

Imo State governor Hope Uzodimma has vowed to continue his bid for the Imo West Senate seat, despite a court judgment that removed him as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate.

What he said

Speaking after Mass at the Government House chapel in Owerri, reported on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, Uzodimma dismissed suggestions that he would surrender the ticket, telling supporters that anyone who says someone else will take it from him is lying. He urged residents to campaign for APC candidates in state and federal races, naming the party's candidates for the Okigwe and Owerri zones, and continued to present himself as the party's candidate for Orlu, the Imo West zone.

The court ruling

A Federal High Court recently ruled that former governor Rochas Okorocha, not Uzodimma, is the APC's rightful candidate for Imo West. Okorocha, who represented the district in the Senate from 2019 to 2023, was congratulated on the ruling by former APC chairman Abdullahi Ganduje.

Background

Uzodimma, who is serving his second term as governor and cannot run again, is a key ally of President Bola Tinubu in the South-East. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has denied having any role in the judgment.

An event centre in Owerri, Imo State, has reportedly been marked by the state government days after hosting a town hall meeting of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

What happened

Photos shared online on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, show a message sprayed in red paint on the property, attributed to the Imo State government, asking the owners to show their title document and ground rent receipts within 48 hours. The venue, on Port Harcourt Road in New Owerri, hosted a town hall meeting with Peter Obi, the NDC presidential candidate, and his allies on 31 October.

How people reacted

Some social media users questioned whether the venue was being punished for hosting an opposition event, while others said the owners should simply present the requested documents and urged critics not to politicise the matter. The state government had not publicly explained the reason for the notice at the time of writing.

Background

Imo is governed by Hope Uzodimma of the All Progressives Congress (APC), a strong supporter of President Bola Tinubu's re-election. The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

Rapper and record label boss Olamide has announced a reunion concert featuring some of the biggest names to come through his label, YBNL.

The line-up

In an Instagram video on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, Olamide said the show will take place in Lagos on 18 December as part of a December festival. The line-up includes Adekunle Gold, Lil Kesh, Fireboy DML and Young Jonn, as well as producer Pheelz and DJ Enimoney.

Why it matters

The artists represent different eras of the label. Adekunle Gold and Lil Kesh rose to fame in YBNL's early years, while Fireboy DML and Young Jonn became key names later on. Pheelz produced many of the label's hits and helped shape its sound.

Background

Olamide founded YBNL in 2012 and has helped launch several successful careers. He recently announced a headline show at London's 20,000-capacity O2 Arena on 25 March 2027, and released a new single in October.

Manchester United are reportedly close to agreeing terms with Mauricio Pochettino to take charge of the club.

What is reported

According to reports on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, the deal would only go ahead if United decide to sack their current head coach, Michael Carrick. No decision has been publicly announced, and the club has not commented.

Talks with US Soccer

According to further reports on Thursday, 12 November, United have contacted US Soccer about triggering a reported $10 million release clause in Pochettino's contract, and expect to spend about $2 million more to bring in his backroom staff. Senior executives reportedly met minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe in Monaco on Wednesday and scheduled a formal meeting with Carrick for Thursday, after which he is widely expected to leave. United are 18th in the Premier League with just one league win this season.

Who is Pochettino

The Argentine has previously managed Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea, and was appointed head coach of the United States men's national team in September 2024.

Background

Carrick has come under growing pressure after a run of poor results, and senior figures at the club are reported to have met to discuss his future. Several candidates have been linked with the job in recent days.

At least 20 people have reportedly been killed in an operation involving Salvadoran troops targeting suspected gang members in Haiti.

A country held hostage

The reported incident comes as Haiti continues to struggle with widespread gang violence, kidnappings and insecurity, particularly in areas where armed groups have taken control of communities and forced thousands of residents to flee.

For years, ordinary Haitians have lived under the constant threat of armed gangs, with many families unable to go about their daily lives without fear.

Foreign forces on the ground

Soldiers from El Salvador have been in Haiti since early 2025 as part of an internationally backed mission to help the Haitian police fight the gangs, alongside forces from other countries.

The reported operation has raised fresh questions about the growing role of foreign security forces in efforts to restore order in the troubled Caribbean nation.

What we don't know

The circumstances of the reported deaths, including the identities of those killed and the exact role played by the Salvadoran troops, have not been independently confirmed.

Over to you

Can foreign military intervention finally help Haiti regain control from armed gangs, or will it only lead to more bloodshed?

Retirees under Nigeria's Contributory Pension Scheme will now receive at least ₦52,500 a month, after President Bola Tinubu activated a minimum pension guarantee in Abuja.

What was announced

At the Presidential Pension Security Initiatives ceremony at the State House on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, the President, represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, declared the guarantee active for 173,209 qualifying retirees. He described it as a floor beneath Nigerian retirees and urged future governments to raise it but never remove it. The Director-General of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), Omolola Oloworaran, confirmed the figure and said more than 65 per cent of private-sector retirees currently earn less than the new minimum.

Who benefits

According to PenCom, 54 per cent of the qualifying retirees come from the private sector, 34 per cent from federal service and 12 per cent from state employment. More than ₦400bn in the Pension Protection Fund will finance the guarantee.

Healthcare and arrears

The President also launched PenCare, a healthcare plan that will give low-income pensioners free access to essential health services, with access cards to be distributed in the coming months. He said the government had issued a ₦758bn bond to clear pension arrears and approved a ₦32,000 monthly adjustment for affected federal pensioners.

Background

The minimum pension was first written into the Pension Reform Act of 2004 and kept in the 2014 law, but no government had put it into effect until now.

The Nigeria Police Force has launched an investigation into officers seen in a video providing an escort for businessman and social media personality Linus Williams, popularly known as Blord.

What the police said

In a post on X on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, the Force Public Relations Officer described the situation as unlawful and illegal, added the hashtag #NoToImpunity, and confirmed that a probe had begun. The statement did not make clear exactly which part of the incident is being investigated.

Background

The video drew attention after social media users pointed out that Blord had recently been seen in caps associated with Rabiu Kwankwaso, running mate to Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), fuelling speculation about his political leanings. Blord was recently released from detention and publicly thanked activist Omoyele Sowore, now a presidential candidate himself, for his intervention. In late 2025, President Bola Tinubu ordered the withdrawal of police officers attached to VIPs.

How people reacted

The police announcement drew strong reactions online, with some users defending Blord. Blord had not publicly responded at the time of writing.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has reportedly reduced its petrol loading price to ₦1,250 per litre and changed how it sets prices.

What changed

According to industry sources cited in reports on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, the new arrangement took effect on Saturday, 7 November. The refinery is said to have abandoned its fixed gantry price of ₦1,300 per litre and returned to pricing petrol against an international gasoline benchmark. The new price is about ₦50, or roughly 3.85 per cent, lower.

What it means

Under the benchmark-linked system, the refinery's petrol prices can move up or down with global gasoline prices, rather than staying fixed. Diesel is reportedly still sold at a fixed gantry price. The refinery is also said to have restructured the group of marketers that distribute its products.

Background

The change comes amid growing competition in Nigeria's fuel market between the refinery, importers and depot owners, with prices shifting frequently in recent weeks. How much of the cut reaches motorists at filling stations will depend on marketers.

Controversial relationship therapist Blessing CEO has expressed shock and gratitude over an unexpected gesture from social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM).

"I expected him to drag me"

According to her, she had expected VDM to take advantage of her difficult moment and drag her publicly, given their long history of disagreements.

Instead, she says, he offered her a helping hand and assured her that he would do whatever it takes to help her get back on her feet.

Tears and gratitude

An emotional Blessing CEO admitted that the gesture humbled her and brought tears to her eyes. She promised to share the full story once she has regained her composure.

She also asked people to help her thank VDM, and declared that she is now officially a member of the Ratel Movement.

A difficult season

The gesture comes during a hard period for Blessing CEO. In recent days she has publicly apologised to people she may have offended, described herself as broken and compared her journey to the prodigal son. She also announced that her relationship with businessman IVD has ended.

Never say never

Who would have imagined Blessing CEO and VDM on the same side after everything that has happened between them? In this life, never say never.

Over to you

Is this the start of a genuine friendship between Blessing CEO and VDM, or will old wounds come back?